Are you working as a manager or supervisor at the university? If you answered "yes" to that question, please know that your role has never been as important as it is than right now. Stress and burnout have been widespread concerns throughout the pandemic. Your support and encouragement can make a positive difference in the lives of those that work for you. Consider these actions:
Establish healthy work boundaries - working long hours, outside of our general 8:30-5 pm schedule, may contribute to your burnout and sends the message to your staff that you expect the same work schedule from them. Be as productive as possible during the work day and establish a hard stop in the evening to rest, relax and enjoy the rest of your day.
Encourage regular breaks - taking a lunch break, and eating nutritious foods to fuel your body, encourages good health and is a key step in maintaining energy and do good work throughout the day. Also consider brief, mini-breaks throughout the day to move and stretch your body.
Lead by example - prioritize your own self-care and consider sharing your journey with others. When managers communicate how they are addressing their own health and well-being, they may encourage others to do the same.
